Palestinian territories: strong emotion for Christmas mass in Bethlehem

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Pierbattista Pizzaballa, during midnight mass for Christmas in the Church of the Nativity, in Bethlehem, in the occupied West Bank, on December 25, 2021. AFP - MUSSA QAWASMA

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1 min

Despite the closed borders, the absence of pilgrims and tourists, Christmas was celebrated as it should be that night in Bethlehem.

It is in this Palestinian city in the occupied West Bank that the Basilica of the Nativity is located, the birthplace of Jesus according to Christian tradition.

More than a thousand people were able to attend the traditional midnight mass.

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With our special correspondent in Bethlehem,

The masks hide half of the faces, but the eyes of the faithful reveal a strong emotion.

In his homily, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem expresses his joy: “

"

Unlike last year, this time the Basilica of the Nativity is crowded.

Mostly Palestinians and foreigners living in the country.

Father David prays for a return to normal.

We miss the absence of pilgrims, the absence of the universal dimension.

We hope that with the return of tourism and pilgrimages, we will be able to help Christians in Bethlehem who are suffering from unemployment.

We must act for them.

Outside, on the Place de la Mangeoire which adjoins the basilica, around a hundred people are gathered at the foot of the giant tree and the crib.

Young people in Bethlehem, like Louay, sell souvenirs to visitors.

Compared with last year, this year the situation has improved a little.

Already, there is no more containment, thank God.

People are vaccinated and suddenly we can celebrate Christmas.

Last year there weren't even any celebrations.

But not everyone in Bethlehem is as optimistic as this young man.

That night after mass, all the visitors returned home.

Before the pandemic, the city's hotels were full during Christmas.

This year they didn't even bother to open.

►Read also: In a Jerusalem deprived of tourists, the Christmas market tries to save the holidays

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• christianity

• Palestinian territories

• Religion

• Coronavirus

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